The information provided here is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included. Ask your doctor if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medications only as recommended by your doctor and according to the instructions provided. If you have further questions about usage or side effects, contact your doctor.

Medications are prescribed to help control inflammation and other symptoms.

Aminosalicylate drugs help control inflammation in the colon. Precisely how they work is unknown. The active ingredient is released after bacteria in the bowel metabolize the drug.

Possible side effects include:

Nausea and vomiting

Heartburn

Diarrhea

Headache

Skin rash

Corticosteroids

Common names include:

Prednisone

Methylprednisolone

Budesonide

Rectal administration forms (enema, suppository, foam)

Corticosteroids reduce inflammation by suppressing the immune system. They are ordered for more severe episodes of inflammatory bowel disease. They may be taken by mouth, injected, or given by enema or suppository. Do not suddenly stop taking these medications. Follow your doctor’s instructions for tapering the dose.

Immune modifiers block the immune response that helps produce inflammation. These drugs take a long time (months) to work and are usually started with another, more fast-acting drug.

Possible side effects include:

Bone marrow suppression

Increased risk of infection

Nausea and vomiting

Diarrhea

Antibiotics

Common names include:

Metronidazole

Ampicillin

Ciprofloxacin

Antibiotics are given to treat infections. In Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, the bowel wall is more susceptible to infection once the lining of the small or large intestine is damaged. Infections are caused when bacteria penetrate the bowel wall. Antibiotics may also be prescribed before bowel surgery. Take antibiotics with food to decrease stomach upset. It is very important that you finish the complete course of therapy. Do not stop taking the antibiotics even if you feel better. Do not drink alcohol while taking antibiotics.

Possible side effects include:

Upset stomach

Diarrhea

Vaginal yeast infections

Bacterial colitis

Biologic Therapy

Anti-tumor necrosis factor agents:

Infliximab

Adalimumab

Certolizumab pegol

Golimumab

Integrin receptor antagonists:

Natalizumab

Vedolizumab

These drugs have been approved to treat severe disease that does not respond to other treatments. TNF-inhibitors is a genetically engineered antibody that binds specifically to tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and blocks its activity in the body. Infliximab is infused into a vein at prescribed intervals. Adalimumab and certolizumab can be given at home.

Integrin receptor antagonists block the effects of leucocytes (white blood cells that cause inflammation). They inhibit a protein that coats the leucocytes and keep them from moving into the tissuessues..

These drugs are given to manage diarrhea during active episodes of the disease. They slow movement through the intestines. Although loperamide in liquid form is available without a prescription, the prescription-only capsule form is used for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.

Possible side effects include:

Drowsiness

Constipation

Special Considerations

If you are taking medications, follow these general guidelines:

Take the medication as directed. Do not change the amount or the schedule.

Ask what side effects could occur. Report them to your doctor.

Talk to your doctor before you stop taking any prescription medication.

Plan ahead for refills if you need them.

Do not share your prescription medication with anyone.

Medications can be dangerous when mixed. Talk to your doctor if you are taking more than one medication, including over-the-counter products and supplements.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.